Support a young carer

Support a young carer

Published by Worthing Daily and last updated on Thursday 14th March 2013

A new mentoring project launched to support young carers is looking for volunteers to come forward.

West Sussex County Council launched the project to recruit volunteer mentors and match them to young carers who would benefit from additional support, to help them identify and achieve specific goals, and improve their life opportunities.

Cabinet Member for Children and Families Peter Evans said: “This innovative project aims to empower our young carers to find their own solutions to problems they are experiencing. Mentors have time to listen, and will respect and value each young person as an individual.

“Mentors can offer support to young carers, particularly at times of transition, so helping to manage the changes alongside their caring role, for example moving schools, leaving home, accessing training or employment, or when there are changes in their family circumstances.”

Young carers are children and young people under 18-years-old who give regular care and emotional support to a family member who has an illness, disability, mental health or substance misuse problem.

Young carer Sarah (15) said: “It can be difficult to fit everything in with school and friends as well, it can be lonely being a young carer. There is lots of support and groups to go to, and the mentoring scheme would be very helpful.”

West Sussex County Council provides support to young carers via the Young Carers Service. The mentoring coordinator will match mentors with a young carer based on their skills, knowledge, life experience and interests.

All mentors will receive comprehensive training, on-going support and supervision.

The deadline to apply to become a mentor is Monday 8 April 2013. To find out more, or for an application pack contact the Young Carers Team on 01903 270300 or by email: youngcarers@westsussex.gov.uk

By Worthing Daily

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